19 Best & Worst Ford Ranger Years [2023 Updated]

by
Source: Motor1

The Ford Ranger has been a popular compact pickup truck in the United States for over three decades. Throughout its long history, the Ranger has undergone numerous changes, with some years being better than others.

While some model years are praised for their reliability and performance, others are plagued with mechanical issues and recall.

The best years of 2001, 2003, 2007, 2011, 2019, and 2020-2023 are the best years to buy, with excellent dependability and few reported issues. Ford Ranger’s worst model years include 1998-2000, 2002, 2004-2006, and 2008-2010. This result was concluded from trustworthy sources such as NHTSA, Edmund, Jd Power, and Kelley Blue Book reviews.

In this article, we will take a closer look at the best and worst years of the Ford Ranger, highlighting its features, recalls, complaints, ratings, and overall reputation among truck enthusiasts.

What Are The Worst Years of Ford Ranger?

You need to be aware of the years that aren’t right for you, even though we didn’t really love compiling this list. Compared to the latter, these model years are unsuitable for a long lifespan. Of course, it’s because they’re susceptible to crashing down frequently.

#10 Worst Year: 2010 Ford Ranger (3.85 Rating)

Source: reddit

The least bad Ford ranger year in this series is 2010, Ford Ranger. 2010 ford ranger is given the title of lacking many modern-day convenience and safety features by Edmunds, which no doubt makes the worst choice for those who look for safety and top-tech features in their truck.

According to carconnection.com, This model year has had lackluster crash-test scores, which can be a no-no choice for newbie drivers.

Common Problem:

  • Paint repair
  • Leak
  • Ball joint

Reviews, Ratings, Recalls & Complaints:

#9 Worst Year: 2009 Ford Ranger (3.84 Rating)

Source: cars.com

The 2009 Ford ranger is another worst model year without many worst features, recalls, and complaints. There are 9 recalls and 168 complaints, worse than average for a truck from 2009.

According to a consumer report, 2009 ford ranger’s average owner satisfaction scores. It has a long braking system that can be annoying for some drivers. It has a fairly low towing capacity, raising a question about its durability.

Common Problem:

  • Engine Vibration
  • Can’t handle the bumpy road
  • Radio problem while driving

Reviews, Ratings, Recalls & Complaints:

#8 Worst Year: 2008 Ford Ranger (3.79 Rating)

Source: caranddrive

The 2008 model year Ford Ranger shared several of the same safety issues as the 2009 model year. CarProblemZoo.com users most frequently experienced issues with their airbags, most of which were linked to the Takata airbag recall.

Common Problem:

  • The air conditioning won’t shut off.
  • Windows shudder
  • No heat

Reviews, Ratings, Recalls & Complaints:

  • NHTSA: 2008 Ford Ranger got 7 recalls and 323 complaints.
  • Edmunds: 2008 Ford Ranger got 4.4/5.0 consumer reviews.
  • Jd Power: 2008 Ford Ranger got 78/100 consumer ratings.
  • Kelley Blue Book: 2008 Ford Ranger got 4.4/5.0 consumer ratings.

#7 Worst Year: 2002 Ford Ranger (3.68 Rating)

Source: Edmunds

CarComplaints.com has ranked this generation as the worst ever, not by the volume of complaints alone, but by the variety. The 2002 Ranger has logged complaints concerning practically all sections of the truck.

The NHTSA website has reported various suspension, lighting, clutch, and exterior accessory issues. With so many people having problems, you must wonder if the 2002 Ranger is safe to drive.

Common Problem:

  • Rough Shifting
  • Transmission Failure
  • Broken Frame

Reviews, Ratings, Recalls & Complaints:

#6 Worst Year: 2006 Ford Ranger (3.63 Rating)

Source: order_242 / Wikipedia

A 2006 Ford Ranger is only worth considering if you are satisfied with a low price and average performance, as described by an Edmunds expert. The vehicle is old, worn out, and completely outclassed by the competition.

In short, It’s clunky and rides roughly; the engine is loud and wasteful, and the interior is too small for any standard truck.

Common Problem:

  • Clutch failure
  • Wheels/hubs problems
  • Problem with the Fuel button

Reviews, Ratings, Recalls & Complaints:

#5 Worst Year: 2005 Ford Ranger (3.58 Rating)

Source: iihs.org

The 2005 Ford ranger is another worst model year due to widespread problems across the board. The vehicle’s tyranny and engine problems are the most notable flaws. Having the car stall, vibrate, or fully break down while driving is extremely dangerous and can lead to significant accidents.

We strongly advise you to stay far away from this vehicle since it is unsafe to operate in any way. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration has issued a recall for this vehicle because of numerous customer complaints.

Common Problem:

  • Wheels bearing problem
  • High-pressure power steering lines burst
  • Engine stalls

Reviews, Ratings, Recalls & Complaints:

#4 Worst Year: 2004 Ford Ranger (3.39 Rating)

Source: Autobytel.com

Although the 2004 Ford Ranger has fewer problems than the 2000 model, they are nonetheless numerous. The seatbelt, braking system, reclining back, and tires are just a few of the most typical ones.

There are a number of other issues, including engine misfires and rusty frames. Many drivers reported the loss of power, minor shaking, and engine stalling while driving a 2004 ford ranger.

Common Problem:

  • Misfiring Engine
  • Engine Failure
  • Loss of Power

Reviews, Ratings, Recalls & Complaints:

#3 Worst Year: 2000 Ford Ranger (3.10 Rating)

Source: surecitric

Ford realized it needed to innovate after receiving numerous customer complaints in 1999. Because of this need, Ford decided to release an off-roading variant in 2000 with the Ranger, but unfortunately, this model is again a failure.

One of the worst features of the 2000 ranger is its slow acceleration, engine failure, and hand breaks. It lacks many advanced features, making it a foolish choice when you have another latest and more reliable truck model year in 2023.

Common Problem:

  • Excessive oil consumption
  • Engine Failure
  • Unanticipated acceleration

Reviews, Ratings, Recalls & Complaints:

#2 Worst Year: 1998 Ford Ranger (2.84 Rating)

Source: Edmunds

The Ford Ranger from 1998 is the second-most complained-about model year. After a few uses, problems begin to appear, leading some to say this is the worst model Ford has ever produced.

Many drivers have reported that the vehicle functions normally but subsequently develops unexpected problems. The 1998 model year received many complaints from various review sites, most notably NHTSA and CarComplaints.com.

Drivers experienced problems with bogging down when accelerating and the dome lights. Other issues include engine misfires, stalling at idle, buzzing noice coming from the engine, etc.

Common Problem:

  • Transmission failure
  • Rear frame broke
  • O/D light flashing problem

Reviews, Ratings, Recalls & Complaints:

#1 Worst Year: 1999 Ford Ranger (2.77 Rating)

Source: Cargurus

The 1999 Ford Ranger is widely regarded as the worst pickup Ford has ever made, a sentiment shared by Edmunds. More than a thousand complaints about the 1999 model year have been submitted to CarComplaints.

Common issues include an unreliable engine gauge (which can cost as much as $3,500 to fix), windshield wipers that activate independently, and difficulty shifting gears.

Most of the 1999 Ford Ranger’s issues surfaced after the truck had been driven for around 100,000 miles. Suddenly, people started seeing how expensive repairs were becoming.

Common Problem:

  • Erratic temp guage
  • Automatic wipers activation
  • Shifting problem

Reviews, Ratings, Recalls & Complaints:

What Are The Best Years of Ford Ranger?

Several Ford Ranger years are commendable in terms of reliability. These model years, however, are the most dependable ones:

#9 Best Year: 2007 Ford Ranger (3.91 Rating)

Source: Vauxford / Wikipedia

Although the 2007 Ford Ranger is getting on in years, it is still a solid choice if you need a vehicle that can do it all and has a minor leaning toward off-roading.

It has a robust and durable design that can handle tough terrain and challenging weather conditions. Additionally, it comes with a powerful engine that offers impressive performance and fuel efficiency.

The 2007 Ford Ranger is an excellent car that combines durability, performance, safety, and affordability, making it a popular choice among truck buyers.

Here are some of the features that made 2007 one of the best Rangers:

  • Towing capacity: With the base 2.3-liter four-cylinder engine, the maximum towing capacity for the 2007 Ranger was 6,000 pounds.
  • Fuel Efficiency: The 2.3-liter four-cylinder engine had a fuel efficiency rating of 21 mpg in the city and 26 mpg on the highway.

Reviews, Ratings, Recalls & Complaints:

#8 Best Year: 2011 Ford Ranger (3.98 Rating)

Source: OSX /Wikipedia

The 2011 Ford Ranger is another excellent choice because it has a higher-than-average reliability rating. The 2011 Ford Ranger received high marks for dependability from J.D. Power and Consumer Reports.

As reported by U.S. News, this vehicle is the ideal choice due to its low cost of ownership and excellent performance at a competitive price.

While several consumers have noted that this product does not feature any particularly unique design or recent modifications, it also features excellent quality and will not wear out rapidly.

Here are some of the features that made 2011 one of the best Rangers:

  • Towing capacity: With the base 2.3-liter four-cylinder engine, the maximum towing capacity was 1,660 to 2,000 pounds.
  • Fuel Efficiency: It had a fuel efficiency rating of 22 mpg in the city and 27 mpg on the highway when paired with the five-speed manual transmission.

Reviews, Ratings, Recalls & Complaints:

#7 Best Year: 2003 Ford Ranger (4.02 Rating)

Source: ford.com

The 2003 Ford Ranger is considered a good car due to several reasons. Firstly, it has a strong and reliable build that can handle tough terrains and withstand harsh weather conditions.

The Ranger’s safety features, including anti-lock brakes and dual front airbags, make it a reliable choice for people who prioritize safety.

Finally, the car’s affordable price point due to its old model year makes it an attractive option for those looking for a reliable car within their budget. This model year is undoubtedly a gem if you are searching for an old ranger year.

Here are some of the features that made 2003 one of the best Rangers:

  • Towing capacity: With the base 2.3-liter four-cylinder engine, the maximum towing capacity was 2,160 to 2,420 pounds.
  • Fuel Efficiency: It had a fuel efficiency rating of 20 mpg in the city and 24 mpg on the highway.

Reviews, Ratings, Recalls & Complaints:

#6 Best Year: 2019 Ford Ranger (4.03 Rating)

Source: auto.tiffanyscoand.top

Despite having some recalls and complaints, the 2019 Ford Ranger is still considered a good truck by many industry experts and consumers.

Many reviewers praised the Ranger’s powerful engine, which delivers excellent performance and fuel efficiency, making it a great option for both off-road adventures and heavy-duty work.

Additionally, the Ranger’s safety features, including advanced driver assistance systems, impressed many reviewers, making it a safe and reliable option for families and individuals.

Here are some of the features that made 2019 the best Ranger:

  • Towing capacity: With the base 2.3-liter four-cylinder engine, the maximum towing capacity was 2,160 to 2,420 pounds.
  • Fuel Efficiency: It had a fuel efficiency rating of 20 mpg in the city and 24 mpg on the highway when paired with the five-speed manual transmission.

Reviews, Ratings, Recalls & Complaints:

  • NHTSA: 2019 Ford Ranger got 7 recalls and 106 complaints.
  • Edmunds: 2019 Ford Ranger got 4.2/5.0 consumer and 6.8 expert reviews.
  • Jd Power: 2019 Ford Ranger got 85/100 consumer ratings.
  • Kelley Blue Book: 2019 Ford Ranger got 4.4/5.0 consumer and 4.5 expert ratings.

#5 Best Year: 2020 Ford Ranger (4.17 Rating)

Source: caranddrive

The 2020 Ford Ranger is an acceptable choice if you are looking for a used vehicle that still has its warranty terms and conditions intact and reasonably low mileage counts in the secondhand market.

It exhibits all of the attributes of the previous iterations while also being one of the better-reviewed model years in recent history.

Here are some of the features that made 2020 one of the best Rangers:

  • Towing capacity: With the base 2.3-liter four-cylinder engine, the maximum towing capacity was 3,500 pounds.
  • Fuel Efficiency: It had a fuel efficiency rating of 21 mpg in the city and 26 mpg on the highway when paired with the five-speed manual transmission.

Reviews, Ratings, Recalls & Complaints:

  • NHTSA: 2020 Ford Ranger got 4 recalls and 35 complaints.
  • Edmunds: 2020 Ford Ranger got 4.1/5.0 consumer and 6.8 expert reviews.
  • Jd Power: 2020 Ford Ranger got 84/100 consumer ratings.
  • Kelley Blue Book: 2020 Ford Ranger got 4.4/5.0 consumer and 4.5 expert ratings.

#4 Best Year: 2022 Ford Ranger (4.34 Rating)

Source: Motor1

If you want a truck with lots of extras, the 2022 Ford Ranger is a good option; rear-wheel drive is standard, and an all-wheel drive is an option.

Apart from several trim levels and cab combinations, the vehicle’s upgraded interior and entertainment facilities make for a competent mid-size pickup truck. A turbocharged 2.3-liter four-cylinder and a 10-speed automatic are standard on the 2022 Ranger.

Here are some of the features that made 2022 one of the best Rangers:

  • Towing capacity: With the base 2.3-liter four-cylinder engine, the maximum towing capacity was 3,500 pounds.
  • Fuel Efficiency: It had a fuel efficiency rating of 21 mpg in the city and 26 mpg on the highway when paired with the five-speed manual transmission.

Reviews, Ratings, Recalls & Complaints:

  • NHTSA: 2022 Ford Ranger got 2 recalls and 7 complaints.
  • Edmunds: 2022 Ford Ranger got 4.5/5.0 consumer and 6.8 expert reviews.
  • Jd Power: 2022 Ford Ranger got 83/100 consumer ratings.
  • Kelley Blue Book: 2022 Ford Ranger got 4.4/5.0 consumer and 4.4 expert ratings.

#3 Best Year: 2023 Ford Ranger (4.39 Rating)

Source: andersonfordkingman.com

The 2023 Ford Ranger is a good contender in the list of best-midsized ford Rangers available in the market today. The 2023 Ranger is expected to feature a more powerful and efficient engine, including a new turbocharged four-cylinder engine that delivers 270 horsepower and 310 lb-ft of torque.

Safety features such as adaptive cruise control, lane departure warning, and the automatic emergency braking are there to give this model another kick toward the best Ranger.

Here are some of the features that made 2011 one of the best Rangers:

  • Towing capacity: With the base 2.3-liter four-cylinder engine, the maximum towing capacity is 7500 pounds.
  • Fuel Efficiency: It had a fuel efficiency rating of 21 mpg in the city and 26 mpg on the highway when paired with the five-speed manual transmission.

Reviews, Ratings, Recalls & Complaints:

  • NHTSA: 2023 Ford Ranger got 0 recalls and 0 complaints.
  • Edmunds: 2023 Ford Ranger got 4.4/5.0 consumer and 6.8 expert reviews.
  • Jd Power: 2023 Ford Ranger got 83/100 consumer ratings.
  • Kelley Blue Book: 2023 Ford Ranger got 4.4/5.0 consumer and 4.4 expert ratings.

#2 Best Year: 2021 Ford Ranger (4.43 Rating)

Source: Cars.com

One of the best examples of a dependable truck with a turbocharged engine is the 2021 Ford Ranger. This model year should provide you with up-to-date infotainment technologies and advanced safety features.

One should consider buying a 2021 ranger if he wants reliable features with top-notch quality in their budget.

Here are some of the features that made 2021 the 2nd best Ranger:

  • Towing capacity: With the base 2.3-liter four-cylinder engine, the maximum towing capacity was 3500 pounds.
  • Fuel Efficiency: It had a fuel efficiency rating of 21 mpg in the city and 26 mpg on the highway when paired with the five-speed manual transmission.

Reviews, Ratings, Recalls & Complaints:

  • NHTSA: 2021 Ford Ranger got 3 recalls and 26 complaints.
  • Edmunds: 2021 Ford Ranger got 4.5/5.0 consumer reviews.
  • Jd Power: 2021 Ford Ranger got 83/100 consumer ratings.
  • Kelley Blue Book: 2021 Ford Ranger got 4.4/5.0 consumer and 4.4 expert ratings.

#1 Best Year: 2001 Ford Ranger (4.57 Rating)

Source: biscayneauto.com

With the remarkable zero recalls and forty-three complaints reported on NHTSA, 2001 is considered the least problematic and best reliable year.

It looked athletic on the outside and had two-wheel drive. The diameter of the tires is 16 inches. Several truck drivers have found that this function makes their car look more threatening, like a 4WD.

It has a larger cargo bed and a powerful 2.3-liter 4-cylinder engine. Anti-lock brakes were also included in this model. To accommodate more passengers, manufacturers began offering 3-piece split bench seats and front bucket seats to the front passengers in 2001.

As a whole, this model should give a try atleast once because it will not cost you much but instead provide you with reliable features.

Here are some of the features that made the 2001 the best Ranger:

  • Towing capacity: With the base 2.3-liter four-cylinder engine, the maximum towing capacity was 1,600 to 2,000 pounds.
  • Fuel Efficiency: It had a fuel efficiency rating of 22 mpg in the city and 27 mpg on the highway when paired with the five-speed manual transmission.

Reviews, Ratings, Recalls & Complaints:

What Are the Most Common Problems with Ford Ranger?

The following are the most common with Ford Rangers:

  • Transmission failure
  • Engine problem
  • Steering problems
  • Rough idling and stalling
  • Windows shudder
  • Noisy synchronizer shaft

Conclusion

In conclusion, the Ford Ranger has had its ups and downs, with some years being better than others. While there have been several great years for the Ford Ranger, the 2001 model year stands out as the best due to its reliability, fewer complaints and recalls, and overall performance.

On the other hand, the 1999 model year is considered the worst due to its significant mechanical issues and recalls.

It’s important to note that just because a certain model year has received negative ratings doesn’t indicate every vehicle manufactured in that year is problematic. This only indicates that most of them are, prompting you to exercise greater caution while searching for a vehicle.

0 0 votes
Article Rating

Related Posts

23 Best and worst Years Of Ford Mustang
23 Best & Worst Years Of Ford Mustang And Common Problems
Chevy Silverado 1500 Years To Avoid | 22 Best & Worst Years
F-150 Years To Avoid | 14 Best & Worst F-150 Pickups (2023)
23 Best & Worst Years For Honda Accord (2023 Updated)
Subscribe
Notify of
guest
0 Comments
Inline Feedbacks
View all comments